Acupuncture for Dogs with Arthritis
Acupuncture for dogs with arthritis is a viable option for many dogs. Once an owner has determined that the approach is suitable for the pet, therapy can begin. The article Veternarians Expand Treatments to Include Acupuncture, Physical Therapy explores alternative medicine for pets.
How Does Acupuncture Help Pets?
Acupuncture for dogs with arthritis is not a new concept. Many have practiced this approach over the centuries. The alternative medicine for pets has been used to treat various conditions including:
• Epilepsy
• Nervous system conditions
• Skin problems
• Breathing trouble
• Digestive problems
• Reproductive troubles
When it comes to arthritis in dogs, many pet owners are seeking additional support to complement the treatments used by their pets’ veterinarians. The approach may not replace all medications used to treat canine arthritis, but it can be beneficial within a comprehensive approach to treating the illness. Many find that their pets require fewer or lower doses of prescribed medications.
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture can be effective in treating arthritic conditions in canines because it works to improve circulation. Increased blood flow to the joints and muscles heightens the oxygen levels, slowing the degeneration of the cells in the process.
The approach alleviates pain by reducing muscle spasms. The process releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, as a way to reduce painful responses from the arthritis.
Acupuncture for dogs with arthritis does not cure the condition and more than one session is required for optimal results. Dog owners can expect to have roughly six sessions. The length of each session depends on the severity of the condition, the dog’s tolerance for the procedure, as well as other factors.
Many dogs have benefited from this staple of traditional Chinese medicine, but the approach’s success depends greatly on a number of factors. The dog may experience immediate relief in a single session that lasts less than a minute, or he may gradually improve after several sessions that last up to 30 minutes.
Is Acupuncture Right for Your Dog?
The first step is to determine whether the approach is suitable for your pet or not. The Some dogs have high levels of anxiety, making them poor candidates for the approach. The problem stems from the anxiety the dog feels, as this response releases adrenaline.
Adrenaline is problematic because it interferes with the effects of acupuncture. As the approach tries to create harmony and balance within the systems of the body, a rush of adrenaline can counteract the progress.
Dogs that have cancer are not the best candidates for acupuncture for pets. The approach must be taken very seriously and with great caution, especially if the dog has cancer. In some instances, using certain pressure points can accelerate cancer growth.
Alternative medicine for pets is gaining in popularity and approaches range from nutritional therapies to chiropractic care. A dog that suffers from arthritis has many obstacles to overcome. Using acupuncture to treat canine arthritis can be a great complementary approach to treating this troublesome condition.
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